Synopsis

Though Anderson Cooper has always considered himself close to his mother, his intensely busy career as a journalist for CNN and CBSaffords him little time to spend with her. After she suffers a brief but serious illness at the age of ninety-one, they resolve to change their relationship by beginning a year-long conversation unlike any they had ever had before. The result is a correspondence of surprising honesty and depth in which they discuss their lives, the things that matter to them, and what they still want to learn about each other.

Both a son’s love letter to his mother and an unconventional mom’s life lessons for her grown son, The Rainbow Comes and Goes offers a rare window into their close relationship and fascinating life stories, including their tragedies and triumphs. In these often humorous and moving exchanges, they share their most private thoughts and the hard-earned truths they’ve learned along the way. In their words their distinctive personalities shine through—Anderson’s journalistic outlook on the world is a sharp contrast to his mother’s idealism and unwavering optimism.

An appealing memoir with inspirational advice, The Rainbow Comes and Goes is a beautiful and affectionate celebration of the universal bond between a parent and a child, and a thoughtful reflection on life, reminding us of the precious insight that remains to be shared, no matter our age.

Heartbreaking but heartwarming too.

I very much enjoyed this read. It is a personal account of family, loss, regret, re-connection, and love. Gloria Vanderbilt and Anderson Cooper (mother and son) have a lengthy conversation via email over a period of time, each conveying events of the past, revealing childhood experiences, both good and bad, and relationships with family and spouses. It is touching, maddening, and also enlightening. I loved the way that mother and son have been able to connect and build a wonderful relationship. Very much worth the read.

by Lav M.on April 03, 2017

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5

The Rainbow Comes and Goes

I was so moved by the book and its organic content. The journey and travels thru your stages of life as i turned each page.....so thank you for sharing and being so real and loving.
I too lost a father at a young age and was close to my mother as she struggled trying to be all things to her family.
The title and sage advice throughout the chapters speaks volumes to the special gift and love you share.
Wishing you both so much love and peaceful days ahead.

by Brenda Arseneault, Calgary,AB. CAon May 13, 2017

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5

Loved this book

I have picked this book for our next book club and I canot wait to host the meeting to hear everyone's feedback! This was so raw and revealing and it was a pleasure that you allowed us, the reader, to learn the personnel details of your incredible journeys! I have also seen the TV documentary which was absolute perfection. I felt like I was watching art before my eyes everything from the beautiful music in the background to the displays of paintings and of course the piecing together of such incredible heartfelt stories! Best of all is what I have learned in changing my own parenting style, open up more so nothing is left unsaid! Thank=you Gloria and thank=you Anderson!

by Carol Druryon June 07, 2017

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5

Heartwarming & Hopeful

A fascinating, true story told through letters back and forth from mother to son. It leaves me hopeful for the future and my relationships with all of my children, grandchildren and yet-to be great grandchildren. At 53, I have always felt 17 inside. Thank you GV for helping me embrace that.